• Health Risks
Cholera, Yellow Fever, Malaria, Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Meningitis, Tuberculosis and AIDS are some of the major health risks in Africa. Don’t let that scare you; awareness and education are both important tools to protect yourself and your family from these diseases. The good news is that vaccinations and preventive measures will help you stay healthy during your stay here.
• Vaccinations
You should start planning for your vaccinations at least six-eight weeks before your trip. Vaccination for Cholera and Yellow Fever is mandatory in most African countries and you will need an International Certificate to gain entry. You could also consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Meningococcal Meningitis and Typhoid. Tuberculosis is a big health risk in Sub-Saharan Africa and getting vaccinated against it is recommended.
Most vaccinations offer protection for a period ranging from 3-10 years, depending on the disease you are getting vaccination for. If you do not want to be vaccinated then consider checking with your physician for Homeopathic medicines for some diseases, including Malaria. Ask your doctor to prescribe some anti-Malarial medication which will reduce your chances of getting infected. Anti-polio vaccination for children below the age of 18 is necessary.
• Medical Kit and Other Essentials
A medical kit is something you must carry with you particularly if you are moving to remote areas. Malaria tablets, some antibiotics for cold, cough, fever, soluble aspirin, potassium permanganate crystals, re-hydration salts, cotton wool, bandages, water proof plasters, water purification tablets, iodine, antiseptic cream for minor cuts and wounds and Sun block are essential inclusions for your medical kit. A thermometer, torch, tweezers and a pair of scissors are some things which are necessary during emergencies and are hard to find in remote areas.
Women may have to include oral contraceptives, medication and soothing lotions for rashes and the like.
If you wear contact lenses then don’t forget to include an extra pair of glasses and disposable lenses with some cleaning solution as it may be hard to find stores that sell such products in the interiors.
AIDS is a big concern in Africa and carrying disposable needles, syringes and condoms is a good precautionary measure.
• Tips For Day To Day Living
Wear full length clothes. Cotton garments are best suited to the weather conditions. Use a good sun block and wear a hat to protect yourself from the hot Sun. Keep way from stagnant water and damp places. Use of a mosquito repellent and mosquito net will reduce your chances of infection from mosquito bites and other insects. Regular cleaning and fumigation will help in keeping your surroundings clean and reduce breeding of insects and bugs.
Food safety tips for Africa are similar to those applicable to other countries. Always eat food that is freshly cooked and avoid experimenting with street food. Always wash fruits, vegetables, meat and poultry products thoroughly before cooking and eating.
Drink boiled or bottled water and stick to fizzy drinks to keep water borne infections at bay.
• Health insurance
Most medical service providers in Africa do not accept payment through insurance companies. This means that you will have to pay first and file a claim with the insurance company for reimbursement later. In order to receive compensation from your health insurance provider treatment by licensed medical personnel and complete documentation is necessary. You can start now by reviewing the major expat health insurance providers and contacting them directly for any enquiries you may have.
Finally….common sense, simple precautions and some self-research should put you and your family on the highway to health during your stay in Africa.
More Expat Resources
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